Florida considering major renovations for O’Connell Center

The O’Connell Center, a multi-purpose arena that serves as the home court for UF basketball, could get a $50 million upgrade, the Gainesville Sun reported.
The project would modernize all facets of the stadium, including the exterior, concourses and seating areas. It also would add a club section.

The university trustees are scheduled to vote this week on whether to contribute $10 million to the construction, while the University Athletic Association would raise/pay the other $40 million or so.

The O’Connell Center, which opened in 1980, hosts the Gators’ basketball, gymnastics, volleyball and swim teams, though the university also uses it for events. The Avett Brothers played there this year, and Michelle Obama gave a campaign speech.

If project moves forward, it could affect basketball schedules next season. The teams might need to play most or all of their non-conference games on the road or at neutral sites.